Delhi Air Quality Index Crosses 300 for First Time This Season

Delhi’s air quality index stood at 307 at 7:05 a.m. on November 2, 2026, the first time this season the city entered the “very poor” category. The 24-hour average on November 1 was 261, classified as poor, after a reading of 117 the previous day. Thick haze reduced visibility near India Gate and other central areas.

The Central Pollution Control Board recorded the sharp rise after several days of moderate air following rain. Meteorologists expected the poor conditions to persist or worsen in the coming days as wind speeds dropped and local emissions accumulated. No large-scale rain was forecast immediately.

Very poor air corresponds to an AQI between 301 and 400. At these levels prolonged exposure can affect respiratory health, particularly for children, the elderly and people with existing conditions. The CPCB and state pollution boards issue health advisories at this stage. Construction and certain industrial activities face tighter restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan when the index remains elevated.

Delhi’s winter air quality typically deteriorates from late October as temperatures fall, winds weaken and agricultural stubble burning in neighbouring states adds particulate matter. The brief improvement after recent rain ended quickly once the weather cleared. Local sources including vehicles, industry and dust continued to contribute.

Authorities have not yet announced additional emergency measures beyond the standard GRAP stages already in force. Schools and outdoor activities may face restrictions if the index climbs further into the severe range. Residents were advised to limit outdoor exercise and use masks when necessary.

The reading of 307 marks the seasonal transition into the period of sustained poor air that usually lasts through December and January. Daily bulletins from the CPCB will track whether the index stabilises or continues to rise. Neighbouring cities in the National Capital Region recorded similar increases on the same morning.

Previous years have seen AQI values climb well above 400 during peak winter episodes. The November 2 figure is the first very poor reading of the 2026-27 winter. Further updates will depend on wind patterns and the volume of regional stubble fires in the days ahead.